Planning a trip to Sri Lanka? Are you not sure about the best way to explore the country? Then keep reading to find out why renting a tuk-tuk in Sri Lanka is the way to go.

This is an incredible destination, there’s little doubt about that! It may be a relatively small island, but the list of things to do in Sri Lanka is extensive. There are waterfalls, paradisiacal beaches, cities with history and much more.

So it’s only natural that you don’t want to miss out on the best of what this country has to offer! But what’s the best way to visit Sri Lanka? After spending 11 days travelling around Sri Lanka, I recommend hiring a tuk-tuk.

Throughout this article, I’ll explain why you should explore Sri Lanka by tuk-tuk. I’ll also provide several tips on how you can do the same. Get ready to experience Sri Lanka from a totally different perspective.

On my road trip through Sri Lanka, I made some unforgettable memories and hiring a tuk-tuk was a big reason for that 😊. So read on to find out everything you need to know about hiring tuk-tuks in Sri Lanka.

Visiting Sri Lanka with your own tuk-tuk is a unique way to explore the country and you’ll soon realise it. This will be an experience you’ll hardly forget!

More flexibility in your Sri Lanka itinerary

Renting a car to discover a destination always gives us greater freedom. You can make as many stops as you like, for as long as you like and whenever you like.

Choosing to drive a tuk-tuk in Sri Lanka will also have this advantage. It’ll be more flexible than exploring the country by public transport (one of the most popular options).

In Sri Lanka, it’s quite usual to hire private drivers to visit the country. This is an option that also offers a lot of flexibility, but it certainly won’t be as much fun 😁.

It’s fun

It only takes a few minutes of driving in Sri Lanka to realise that this is going to be one hell of an adventure! You never know what to expect when driving in this country, especially in the big cities.

Traffic in big cities (e.g. Kandy, Colombo) is chaotic and, I don’t know about you, but I enjoy watching this kind of chaos. Something is amusing about watching the locals drive frantically and honking.

Plus, in more rural areas (and sometimes even in cities), we can find various wild animals. Watch out for elephants, leopards or cattle, for example.

You might help the local community

Some tuk-tuk rental companies in Sri Lanka have a social purpose. For example, Tuk-Tuk Rental (the company I chose) rents tuk-tuks to local families, offering them a fair price for this service. This is a way for these families to earn extra income.

Sri Lanka is a country that has suffered in recent years (e.g. civil war, economic crisis, Covid). This way, knowing that we are helping a country that deserves so much more feels good.

You’ll make unforgettable memories

I’m sure you won’t forget the honking, the chaotic traffic, the beautiful scenery in the endless hours driving a tuk-tuk or even the hot wind blowing in your face as you drive to your next destination.

Explore the country the way the locals do

One of the most common means of transport used by Sri Lankans is the tuk-tuk. Who wouldn’t like to have a closer experience with the locals?

And how many countries in the world can you make a road trip in a tuk-tuk? Certainly few!

Frequent interactions with locals

It is becoming increasingly common for tourists to hire tuk-tuks to explore the country. Besides, many locals are seeing tourists driving tuk-tuks for the first time.

You won’t be surprised if people stop you or take advantage of a stop in traffic to ask where you’re from. Where are you from? Portugal! Ah, Ronaldo, Ronaldo!

Expect lots of smiles and a few curious looks from the locals, especially the further you get away from the more touristy places. Sri Lankans are very friendly and helpful.

It’s an affordable option for exploring the country

How much do you think it might cost to hire a tuk-tuk in Sri Lanka? What if I told you it could cost as little as 14 USD/day? For the incredible experience it is, I don’t think it’s expensive at all. What’s more, petrol is relatively cheap (in September 2024, we spent 48€ to drive 1000 km).

💡 EXTRA TIP: Use the code ATICKETTOTAKEOFF on the TukTukRental.com website to book your tuk-tuk with a 5% discount.

There are cheaper options (buses or trains, for example), but you’ll be missing out on a good dose of adventure if you decide not to hire a tuk-tuk.

• Main Benefits: Flexibility, self-driving and easier access to more remote areas.
• Disadvantages: more expensive and possibly stressful for inexperienced drivers.
• Cost: Daily prices start at 14 USD, excellent value for money for longer journeys.
• Driving Experience: Fun, open-air driving with a local feel.
• Best For: Independent travellers looking for an unforgettable adventure.

• Main Benefits: Extremely cheap, extensive network connecting towns and cities.
• Disadvantages: Limited comfort, lack of flexibility for personalised itineraries, fixed timetables.
• Best For: Budget travellers visiting areas of the country with good bus connections

• Main Benefits: Some train journeys have breathtaking views (e.g. Colombo to Kandy and the famous train journey between Colombo and Ella).
• Disadvantages: Slow, limited availability for less touristy areas, often overcrowded, fixed timetables, recurring delays
• Best For: Travellers who enjoy scenic journeys and who aren’t limited on time.

• Main benefits: Speed, flexibility and affordable rental prices.
• Disadvantages: Greater risk of accidents, limited storage, uncomfortable for longer journeys.
• Best For: Experienced drivers and/or those who don’t want to make long journeys

• Main benefits: Personalized service, no need to drive, local guide knowledge.
• Disadvantages: High cost, less immersive than self-driving.
• Best For: Tourists on a high budget or short trips, families, and groups.

Of course, the most suitable transportation option for your trip depends on what you value most, the trip’s length and your budget. Each of these options has its advantages and disadvantages.

These are the best options depending on which factor is most relevant to you:

• Flexibility: tuk-tuks, private drivers and motorbikes are the most flexible options
• Cost: buses and trains are the better option for low-budget travellers
• Comfort: if comfort is your main concern, then hire a private driver in Sri Lanka. This is by far the most comfortable option
• Local experience: almost all the options allow you to interact with the locals but with different levels of intensity. The trains/buses allow for a greater connection with the locals, while the tuk-tuk gives access to closer contact with nature.

Convinced to hire a tuk-tuk in Sri Lanka? Good choice! Now it’s time to find out how to do it. It’s very simple following the recommendations below.

Tuk-tuk rental is getting more popular in Sri Lanka. Yet, there are still only a few options for those looking to travel this way. Depending on where you want to start your tuk-tuk itinerary, the companies available may differ.

But, in this article, I have to recommend the company where I rented my tuk-tuk in Sri Lanka – TukTukRental.com. I had such a positive experience with them that I have to 100% recommend their services.

💡 EXTRA TIP: Some people choose to hire a tuk-tuk only when arriving in Sri Lanka. They usually negotiate the price with a local who has one of these vehicles. Yet, I don’t recommend doing this as it’s always safer to hire from a certified and reputable company.

There are several reasons to recommend TukTukRental.com. These are the main ones:

• Pick-up/Drop-off anywhere in Sri Lanka: You can pick up and drop off the tuk-tuk pretty much anywhere in Sri Lanka. There is an extra fee if you choose other places other than Negombo and Colombo Airport;
• Involvement with the local community: the project aims to help the local communities. The tuk-tuks belong to local families who are paid for each tuk-tuk that is rented;
• Excellent customer service: they have good customer service throughout the process. Plus, there is a 24/7 service for urgent matters via WhatsApp;
• Flexibility to make the train journey between Ella and Kandy: nobody wants to miss one of the most famous train journeys in the world! That’s why TukTukRental.com has a service (an extra fee will be charged) that transports the tuk-tuk (and luggage!) between the 2 points of the journey while you enjoy this marvellous train journey.
• Regular maintenance of tuk-tuks: they ensure that the tuk-tuk you receive is in perfect condition. If you visit the company’s offices in Negombo, you’ll see a large team dedicated to vehicle maintenance.

If you decide to collect the tuk-tuk somewhere other than Colombo airport or the TukTukRental.com offices in Negombo, the tuk-tuk will be delivered to your hotel.

In any case, they’ll provide you with a brief theoretical explanation. This includes things you should know about the tuk-tuk (e.g. oil changes, what to do if you see wild animals, maintenance required at 1000 kilometres). Also, you will get a practical lesson with an instructor. In the end, you will receive your licence to drive in Sri Lanka.

Depending on how comfortable you are with driving the tuk-tuk, this part of the process can take a bit longer. In any case, when organising your itinerary, allow at least 2-3 hours for picking up the tuk-tuk. I guarantee it will be worth it 😉!

In Sri Lanka, you need your driving licence (either your home country’s or an international driving licence). You’ll also need a special temporary driving licence. In addition, the minimum age to hire a tuk-tuk in Sri Lanka is 21.

You can get this licence from the Automobile Association of Ceylon. Once there, these are the documents you’ll have to provide:

• Visa to visit Sri Lanka
• Passport
• Driving licence (national or international)

If you go with this option, you’ll spend more time on arrival in Sri Lanka, dealing with these bureaucracies. Fortunately, if you hire a tuk-tuk with TukTukRental.com, they can take care of this for you (note: there is an extra charge).

The licence will be ready when you pick up the tuk-tuk. If you’re travelling with limited time, this is the best option.

I’m sure you don’t want to waste time on boring things when there’s such a beautiful country to explore 😄! Besides, the price difference between doing it yourselves or TuktukRental.com is so small, that it’s not worth the trouble.

Renting a tuk-tuk isn’t that expensive. Especially when you consider the flexibility and freedom it gives you to explore such an incredible country!

Several factors make the rental price vary, such as:

• Length of rental: companies often offer discounts for longer rentals (lowering the cost/day).
• Extras included (e.g. shuttle service for the train journey from Kandy to Ella, accessories for carrying surfboards, cooler).
• Time of year: some months are better for visiting Sri Lanka and, so, prices tend to be higher during those periods

It is also important to take into account other costs associated with the rental, such as:

• Sri Lankan driving licence (30 – 40 USD): mandatory, even if you have an International Driving Permit
• Fuel costs (1 USD/litre): the consumption of a tuk-tuk is surprisingly low (on average, 4 litres/100 km).
• Deposit at the time of booking (100 – 300 USD): this is an amount that will be returned at the end, but you should consider it as an initial cost.
• Pick up/drop off at specific locations (10 – 45 USD)

For example, renting a tuk-tuk in September with TukTukRental.com for a week would cost the following:

• Tuk-tuk hire: 154 USD
• Licence to drive in Sri Lanka (if handled by TukTukRental): 40 USD
• Initial deposit (to be returned at the end): 150 USD
• Petrol (depending on distance travelled): 30 – 50 USD

💡 EXTRA TIP: Use the code ATICKETTOTAKEOFF on the TukTukRental.com website to book your tuk-tuk with a 5% discount. The code should be entered where it says “I have coupon code”, and the discount will be immediately reflected in the price you see.

Apart from a Temporary Driving Permit in Sri Lanka (and your driving licence), you can only hire a tuk-tuk from the age of 21. Some companies even require a minimum age of 23 for this type of rental.

It sometimes seems that the traffic rules are (slightly) forgotten by the locals. But don’t forget to follow them, including the speed limit.

In addition, you should know that in Sri Lanka you drive on the left (as in the UK, for example) and that tuk-tuks cannot be driven on motorways. Once you have the tuk-tuk in your hands, I suggest turning off the toll and motorway options on Google Maps.

Driving a tuk-tuk is great fun! But, it’s also extremely challenging, especially for those who have no experience driving motorbikes. It’s normal to get nervous in the first few hours, especially if you start in a big city like Kandy or Colombo.

Try to remain calm when driving, even when you’re being honked at because you’re going “too slow” or can’t move after stopping in traffic. In these situations, Sri Lankans will most likely honk. But, in a few seconds, they’ll have passed your tuk-tuk and be on their way 😄. Relax, it’ll be fine!

After more than a week of driving a tuk-tuk in Sri Lanka, these are my practical tips:

• Practise starting the tuk-tuk and also stopping and shifting gears
• The tuk-tuk is smaller than you think. Don’t worry about parking it
• Avoid driving after dark as the tuk-tuk’s lights are dim
• Use the horn often (also because it’s part of the Sri Lankan culture)
• Watch out for buses driving like crazy on the roads (if they come from the opposite direction to overtake, let them pass first).
• Check oil and tyres daily

Finally, I recommend that you allow more time for your journeys than Google Maps indicates. The tuk-tuk can only go at 40 kilometres per hour and sometimes Google Maps’ indications don’t take this into account. What’s more, you’re bound to want to stop many times along the way.

Road conditions in Sri Lanka vary from good to bumpy (especially in the more rural areas). In the cities, you can expect chaotic traffic.

During the rainy season, roads can become flooded and/or slippery. In this case, drive with special care.

So what are the biggest hazards when driving in Sri Lanka?

• Wild animals: if you see a wild elephant, don’t get too close, NEVER feed it and assess the situation. In some cases, it may be necessary to turn around and go the other way.
• Buses: buses are the “kings of the road” in Sri Lanka. They do whatever they want and drive like madmen. Let them pass and be especially careful when they come from the opposite direction while overtaking other vehicles.
• Driving at night: many roads are poorly lit and the tuk-tuk’s lights are dim. There are many pedestrians and, sometimes, wild animals on the roads, so I recommend avoiding driving after dark.
• Heavy rain: on days when it rains, be especially careful when driving, as the roads will be more slippery.

I’m always in favour of including insurance when you hire a car. And renting a tuk-tuk is no exception because it’s actually mandatory to have insurance when you hire a tuk-tuk in Sri Lanka.

Most companies provide basic third-party insurance as part of the rental price. However, you can always increase your insurance coverage. Some companies offer other insurance options for an extra fee.

Regardless of the rental insurance you choose, I always recommend travel insurance that covers medical treatment, repatriation and medication, among other things.

The experience of driving a tuk-tuk in Sri Lanka is something you’ll never forget. But to make it fun, it’s important to make sure it’s also safe.

I’ll share some tips to make your tuk-tuk journey safer:

• Pay attention to the driving lesson to find out how a tuk-tuk works. Take the opportunity to clear up any doubts that may arise.
• Practise driving a bit before venturing into more confusing places
• Use the horn and mirrors to communicate with other drivers
• Avoid driving at night due to the lower visibility and greater likelihood of animals on the road (dogs, elephants, cows, etc.).
• Pay special attention to buses on the road
• Drive within the permitted speed limits because tuk-tuks are light and turn easily when speeding.
• Hold on to the safety bars (in the back of the tuk-tuk) if necessary, as most tuk-tuks don’t have seat belts.

Yes, it is possible. And I highly recommend it! It’s a unique experience that allows you to travel differently. What’s more, the tuk-tuk is the means of transport most used by locals.

The tuk-tuk will also give you greater freedom in putting together an itinerary around Sri Lanka.

Pretty much. However, there are a few rules to follow. The tuk-tuk driver must be at least 21 years old and have a national (written in Latin characters) or international driving licence.

In addition, you will need a temporary permit to drive in Sri Lanka. Many rental companies facilitate the process of obtaining this licence for you.

Sri Lanka may seem small, but it has a lot to visit and you’ll find different weather in different parts of the country. So there’s no right answer to this question.

For the island’s west and south coasts, the season where it rains less is from December to April. These are the months with the best conditions for driving a tuk-tuk. On the East Coast, the best time to visit is from May to September.

So, try to avoid the monsoon season as much as possible, as heavy rain can make driving very difficult. Also, remember that you can’t close the tuk-tuk all the way up with its rain cover.

First, you need to have the minimum age to hire a tuk-tuk in Sri Lanka (21). Plus, you’ll also need a driving licence and a temporary driving permit in Sri Lanka. The driving licence can be the one from your home country or an international driving license.

Prices vary depending on several factors, but prices tend to range between 15 – 25 USD per day. Generally, longer rentals have a lower price per day.

Don’t forget to add the cost of fuel, any extras and additional insurance not included in the basic rental price. Fuel is around 1 USD/litre and a tuk-tuk consumes an average of 4 litres per 100 km.

Yes, it’s safe. And, above all, a lot of fun. This is one of those unforgettable experiences. Although it may seem a little confusing at first (especially for people with no experience of riding a motorbike), you get the hang of it eventually.

Yes, it is compulsory to have insurance when you hire a tuk-tuk in Sri Lanka. Most companies include a basic insurance option in the rental price. This usually includes coverage against third parties.

It is possible to extend the insurance to options with greater coverage. You can ask the rental company to find out more about the several options available.

You’re bound to see tuk-tuks with several people in them. Sri Lankans are experts at making “one more person fit”. However, to ensure a more comfortable journey, I suggest no more than 3 adults per tuk-tuk (including the driver). With small children, it may be possible to extend to 4 people.

Space inside a tuk-tuk is indeed limited. Also take into account the luggage you’ll be taking with you, as this can steal some of the available seating space.

The tuk-tuk is quite small, so it can fit almost anywhere. It’s common for locals to park on the side of the road, especially in less busy places. I suggest you do the same.

In larger cities, it can be more difficult to find a parking space, in which case you may need to find a car park.

In some specific places, there may be a parking charge, but it shouldn’t be more than a few cents.

Luggage storage space in a tuk-tuk is quite limited. If you’re travelling with a lot of luggage, I suggest trying to leave what you don’t need with the company where you hired the tuk-tuk, if possible.

For example, in my case, I was travelling with two 30L backpacks and two other small bags. At the back of the tuk-tuk (next to the back seat) there is a compartment where you can put your luggage. In my case, I could fit two large backpacks and one of the smaller ones.

Although there is a place to store your luggage, it won’t be protected if you park the tuk-tuk somewhere and leave it for a while.

I tried to design my itinerary around Sri Lanka in such a way as to avoid visiting places where I’d have to leave the larger backpacks inside the tuk-tuk. However, there were two or three times when we had no other option. Carrying all the backpacks wasn’t an option either!

In these cases, we tried to park near busier places and asked a local to watch the tuk-tuk for us. We paid the locals some rupees and, in every case, they accepted and everything went smoothly.

Even so, we always closed the tuk-tuk with its rain cover so that what was inside wouldn’t be so visible. In addition, we made sure not to leave the smaller backpacks (with the most valuable items) inside the tuk-tuk.

I’m not going to lie! The first time I tried to drive the tuk-tuk (during my driving lesson!) I was worried because it doesn’t have much to do with driving a car and I have no experience with motorbikes.

Honestly, the hardest part is starting the tuk-tuk and changing gear, as you do it with your hands (which is quite different from driving a car!).

However, with practice, it did become easier. Driving in cities is clearly the most complex because you have to stop and start a lot. Above all, the important thing is to keep calm and ignore everything else around you (other drivers will honk, but ignore them).

So I can’t say it’s the easiest thing in the world at first, but it’s worth it, that’s for sure 🥰!

It’s bound to happen! On my trip, it only happened twice, but I’ve heard reports of people being pulled over dozens of times.

Always have your Sri Lankan driving licence to hand, as this is the main document the police will ask for.

Both times we were stopped, we showed the document to the police and they quickly let us go on our way.

One of the things I was most worried about on this tuk-tuk trip through Sri Lanka was that it would be very tiring. Although the distances between places aren’t too great, the road conditions and the limited speed of a tuk-tuk mean that it takes a long time to get from A to B.

However, it wasn’t as tiring as I thought it would be. The landscapes are so beautiful along the way that we hardly got bored.

The longest journey I made took about 5 hours (with very few stops in between) and it went very smoothly.

The tuk-tuk’s fuel tanks are quite small.

On average, a full tank allows us to cover around 100 kilometres. Keep this in mind on days when you’re travelling more kilometres. You’ll probably have to fill up several times during the journey.

There’s an emergency tank that allows you to do a few extra kilometres if you run out of petrol. Honestly, I didn’t use it because I didn’t understand how to use it. I’d say don’t count on it and fill up every 100 kilometres.

I hope this article has been useful in helping you organise your trip to Sri Lanka and that you’re now convinced to rent a tuk-tuk for your trip! Get ready for an unforgettable adventure and let me know how it goes 🥰.

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